10 Shows & Movies Similar to Modern Family (2009)

Description: Parks and Recreation shares Modern Family's mockumentary style and its optimistic tone. Both shows feature a diverse ensemble cast where each character brings unique humor and heart to the story.

Fact: The show was initially conceived as a spin-off of The Office but evolved into its own unique series. Amy Poehler's portrayal of Leslie Knope became iconic, inspiring real-life women in politics. The character of Ron Swanson was partially inspired by a real-life libertarian that creator Mike Schur knew.

Description: Like Modern Family, The Middle is a family sitcom that blends humor with heartfelt moments, focusing on the everyday struggles and triumphs of a middle-class family. Both shows use a mockumentary style at times, with characters breaking the fourth wall to share their thoughts with the audience.

Fact: The Middle was created by Eileen Heisler and DeAnn Heline, who previously worked on shows like Murphy Brown and How I Met Your Mother. The show was praised for its realistic portrayal of middle-class family life in the Midwest. The character of Brick Heck was inspired by the creators' own experiences with their quirky children.

Description: While Brooklyn Nine-Nine is a workplace comedy, it shares Modern Family's ensemble cast structure and its balance of humor with emotional depth. Both shows excel at character development, making viewers deeply invested in the lives of their characters.

Fact: Brooklyn Nine-Nine was created by Dan Goor and Michael Schur, the latter of whom also co-created Parks and Recreation. The show was canceled by Fox after five seasons but was revived by NBC due to fan outcry. Andre Braugher's portrayal of Captain Holt earned widespread acclaim and several award nominations.

Description: The Goldbergs, like Modern Family, is a family sitcom that blends humor with nostalgia. While Modern Family focuses on contemporary family dynamics, The Goldbergs does so through a 1980s lens, but both shows celebrate family bonds amidst chaos.

Fact: The show is based on creator Adam F. Goldberg's real childhood, with many episodes inspired by actual home videos. Jeff Garlin, who plays Murray Goldberg, is also an executive producer on the show. The series features an extensive soundtrack of 1980s hits, often playing a key role in episodes.

Description: Schitt's Creek shares Modern Family's blend of sharp humor and genuine heart. Both shows feature eccentric but lovable characters who grow significantly over the course of the series, with family bonds at their core.

Fact: The show was created by and stars Eugene Levy and his real-life son Dan Levy. It went from relative obscurity to sweeping the 2020 Emmy Awards. Catherine O'Hara's character Moira Rose's distinctive vocabulary became a fan favorite aspect of the show.

Description: Fresh Off the Boat shares Modern Family's focus on family dynamics and cultural identity, though from an Asian-American perspective. Both shows blend humor with meaningful exploration of what it means to be a family in America.

Fact: The show was based on Eddie Huang's memoir, though Huang later distanced himself from the adaptation. It was the first Asian-American family sitcom on network television in 20 years. Constance Wu's performance as Jessica Huang became particularly beloved by audiences.

Description: Life in Pieces shares Modern Family's family-centric focus and anthology-style storytelling, with each episode broken into distinct segments focusing on different family members. Both shows find humor in relatable family situations.

Fact: The show features an all-star cast including Dianne Wiest, James Brolin, and Colin Hanks. Each episode is divided into four short stories about the same extended family. The series was created by Justin Adler, who previously worked on Better Off Ted and Rules of Engagement.

Description: Superstore shares Modern Family's ensemble approach and its ability to find humor in everyday situations. Both shows feature diverse casts and tackle social issues with a light but meaningful touch.

Fact: The show was created by Justin Spitzer, who previously worked on The Office. Many of the background customers in the store are actually improvised by actors. America Ferrera served as both star and executive producer, marking her return to television after Ugly Betty.

Description: While The Good Place is more philosophical in nature, it shares Modern Family's clever writing and ability to balance humor with deeper themes. Both shows feature tight ensemble casts with excellent chemistry.

Fact: The show was created by Michael Schur, who also co-created Parks and Recreation and Brooklyn Nine-Nine. The series was noted for its complex narrative structure and ethical philosophy themes. Ted Danson's performance as Michael marked a career resurgence for the veteran actor.

Description: American Housewife shares Modern Family's suburban family setting and its mix of physical comedy with witty dialogue. Both shows feature strong female leads navigating the challenges of modern parenting.

Fact: The show was originally titled 'The Second Fattest Housewife in Westport' before being changed. Katy Mixon, who plays Katie Otto, is also a trained dancer. The series was noted for its frank discussions about body image and societal pressures.